Preserving the human-animal bond

What if animals make us happy? The sensitive relationship that binds humans to companion animals is a source of happiness for all. Maintaining our animals’ good health by providing suitable care preserves this key link to personal and social fulfillment.

Over time, companion animals, especially dogs and cats, have truly become members of the family. Along with this change has come an awareness of the effects of the presence of animals on the quality of life. For many animal owners - especially children, the elderly, and people who are isolated or ill - companion animals are a source of emotional balance. Living with a companion animal has a positive impact on our health. Thus, taking care of companion animals safeguards the relationship that unites us and, in the end, means taking care of ourselves.

HEALTHY SKIN, HEALTHY ANIMALS

The quality of an animal’s skin and fur is a good indication of the state of its health. An animal suffering from a dermatological condition is an animal whose owner won’t feel like petting him. Thus, maintaining the animal’s skin is crucial. Skin conditions are very common in dogs, cats or even new companion animals (rodents, birds, ferrets, etc.) - it is estimated that one in four dogs will have a dermatological problem over the course of its life. They may be benign, but dermatological diseases can also recur, thus affecting the animal’s quality of life. Their origin is extremely varied: infestations by parasites, infections, allergies, hormonal problems, or more rarely, immunologic, genetic or cancerous dermatosis. When treating a case, the veterinarian must therefore determine the origin of the symptoms in order to establish an appropriate treatment, and may need a wide variety of solutions. To meet this need, Virbac has worked with industry experts from the outset to develop auricular products, parasiticides, anti-inflammatories, skin care products, antimicrobial, diagnosis and animal nutrition products. A pioneer in dermatology, Virbac launched a specially designed shampoo for dogs’ skin in the early 80’s. Today, Virbac continues to improve its formulas, and has even developed a new technology that stimulates the skin’s natural defenses: antimicrobial peptides.

HEALTHY TEETH, FRESH BREATH

Bad breath, or halitosis, is common in dogs and cats. Beyond adversely affecting the human-animal relationship, it is also one of the first signs of poor dental hygiene and could lead to more serious, painful problems for the animal, such as gingivitis or periodontal disease. According to WSAVA (World small animal veterinary association), good dental hygiene involves periodic tartar removal by a professional. Regular care given in the home is equally essential: tooth-brushing, the use of chews or even drinkable remedies. A pioneer in dental care for companion animals, Virbac has 30 years’ experience in this area and a range of products with scientifically proven results (toothpastes, chews, mouthwashes) for veterinary clinics and animal owners.

MANAGING STRESS AND UNDESIRABLE BEHAVIORS

Like humans, companion animals can feel stress. This can affect their health by weakening their immune system. Virbac offers green tea-based nutritional supplements to combat stress in dogs and cats.
Fostering emotional ties between humans and animals also means channeling unwanted behaviors. In the male dog, neutering limits certain sexual behaviors, such as mounting. For cats, there are solutions to calm disturbed behavior after a move, for example. The use of a pheromone diffuser reduces urinary marking and stress or environmental-related behaviors.